Interior Condition of an N47 After 210,000 Miles

[Blu_Ray_UK2007]

Upon evaluating other alternatives, I opted for lunacy. I invested money in an engine refurbishment for my 210,000-mile F31 320D, including a new timing chain, oil pump service with sump removal, walnut blasting, cam cover replacement, water system overhaul (pump, thermostat, various hoses, tank, radiator), pulleys, DPF flex pipe and an additional ZF gearbox service.

Several discoveries:


A regimen of consistent and proactive oil changes has yielded benefits. The oil pump remains in excellent shape and was not replaced; the turbo is in wonderful condition, and the engine inside is exceptionally clean. The garage that has serviced it for me over the last years has evidently performed the task correctly.
Nonetheless, the maximum lifespan for the timing chain is 210,000 miles. The previous one was deteriorated, exhibiting greater wear laterally than longitudinally, which poses a greater risk of unexpected snagging and snapping; hence, it was unequivocally time for a replacement. The N47 has performed admirably.
The water system required replacement, however the radiator itself was not particularly problematic (it was replaced anyway for assurance).
An earlier EGR replacement 100,000 miles ago (to preempt the recall not being conducted on older vehicles), extensive long-distance travel, and the avoidance of low-quality fuel have led to negligible carbon accumulation over the past 100,000 miles (refer to the photographs below). The walnut blast was unnecessary, although I opted to have it performed while I was there.

The outcome: it is currently a 215,000-mile vehicle, operating with remarkable smoothness.

[Blu_Ray_UK2007]

[Blu_Ray_UK2007]

[Blu_Ray_UK2007]

The sump is remarkably clean immediately following its removal, considering it has accumulated over 200,000 kilometres. The upper section appeared pristine, devoid of tarnish or muck.

[Blu_Ray_UK2007]

Although my car is now mechanically in optimal condition, the money expenditure was irrational (several thousand pounds). I possess an automobile that is relatively well-maintained (considering its 200,000 kilometres) and appears unlikely to malfunction in the near future. Additionally, being Euro 5, it is significantly easier to maintain than a Euro 6 vehicle. Acquiring a newer vehicle in such excellent technical condition would either necessitate 1) purchasing a new automobile or 2) experiencing extraordinary fortune in the used car market. This amount far exceeds the car's value, and insurance companies will not recognise it as having any worth in the event of a claim.

Nonetheless, it operates exceptionally well.

[ChatMaven]

The engine is exceptionally clean, resembling others that have undergone consistent oil changes. Numerous instances of sludge accumulation have been observed in several vehicles, even those with mileage well below 100,000 miles.

It clearly demonstrates that long-life servicing is completely fallacious.

[Blu_Ray_UK2007]

The longevity of servicing has been exemplary for the makers...

[ChatMaven]

Additionally, leasing firms

[IrvesBMW]

Well done, may the enduring diesel engine thrive.

[dave783]

The additional oil changes are essential.
One of my vehicles has had oil changes every 12 months, although only accumulating 1,700 miles. However, I prioritise the MOT and oil and filter replacement while it is on the ramp, with other filters replaced as needed.